I like the idea of a 5 link rear end ... I have a late pick up with a rotten chassis, its not going to get through the next MOT so I'm planning on fabricating a new chassis soon, confident I can put something together that is going to be strong and have all the attachment points in the correct place ... and then I thought I could fabricate a 5 link rear end, ... so ... just wondered ... if i'm clever with measuring/cutting/welding, I cant see any problem with making an unadjustable setup using polyurethane bushes to keep costs down ... talking about it last night in the pub it was a brilliant idea easy to think/write about it but have I missed something?

HI,
I've got some trailing arms from a 124 Sport. The 124 Sport has three trailing arms and are approx 2in in diameter. Two go either side of the rear axle for front/rear travel and there is another bar for any sideways movement. I also have the axle if interested.

Hmmm - interesting - what stops the axle rotating ? Or are these 'arms' - so large and so mounted that they are supposed to contain the rotational forces ? The 'sideways' bar is the Panhard rod. Has to be as long as possible and carefully mounted to minimise the forced sideways movement as the axle rises and falls - and the bar swings in an arc. Watts linkage (see Rover SD1) is better!

Indeed - my TR7 has no Panhard - but the Works did add one for rallying! The SD1 uses the same axle - and similar trailing arms (although not so angled) and the Watts linkage. It's actually pretty neat - just two arms and pivot point on the back of the diff casing. I believe some have adapted it to their TR7s. The original Lotus Cortina had a proper A frame I believe ? I keep looking under any I find at shows - but they all seem to be leaf spring cars.

More likely I think that 2 door Cortinas have been 'converted' to Lotus spec! Although later Lotus cars were indeed on leaf springs - the A frame was ok for racing but not strong enough for rallying. Yes the P6 De Dion was not carried through to the SD1.

Hey BigDawg, I'll PM you my email so you can send pickies .. or you could just put them on here, ... It was after last years national when I asked you exactly what colour your convertible is ... seem to have a habit of stealing your ideas, but thats because I like them. I also like the idea of doing it myself, very satisfiying, however, when my lottery numbers come up its jonathon I'll be contacting. Could you imagine an open cheque and the longest wish list ever